On March 6, 2020, the first case of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) was officially
reported in Cameroon.
1
As of April 25, 2020, the number of cases had increased to 1569, with 53 deaths,
2
indicating an exponential growth in the number of cases. Although these numbers already
sound shocking, the truth is that they are an underestimation because the diagnostic
system for COVID-19 in Cameroon is not robust. Realistic projections in this context
suggest approximately 14 000 cases of COVID-19 in the country.
A series of infection control measures have been implemented by the Government of
Cameroon, including hygienic measures (eg, systematic hand washing), physical distancing,
closure of all educational facilities and international borders, interministerial
consultations that included the input of development partners, and financial measures
allocated to implement this response. The university research community and national
media outlets helped to develop and implement these measures alongside medical practitioners.
3
Despite this mobilisation, the progression of the pandemic indicates the weaknesses
of some of the selected approaches. For instance, in early March, the first cases
were reported only in the Centre Region of Cameroon, and 10 days later a small number
of cases were identified in the Littoral and West Regions.
4
This was the time to seal off these three regions, which are the most economically
active and populated parts of our nation, but no restrictions on movement were introduced.
Of note, the general state of hospital infrastructure in Cameroon is similar to that
of many other African countries—that is, far from the standards required internationally.
Moreover, although Cameroon has many highly qualified professionals in the fields
of medicine and social science, regrettably, these experts were not always consulted
on meeting the challenges of the unfolding pandemic. Finally, society-wide acceptance
of prescribed rules and regulations must be achieved if public health measures are
to be effective, and this was not the case in this instance. Many Cameroonians are
slow to acknowledge the potential danger of the pandemic.
Improving the response to COVID-19 in both Cameroon and the rest of the continent
is crucial. In view of the projected number of cases, which differs so greatly from
the officially known figures, a total confinement of the entire population seems inevitable.
Public support for the confinement process will be imperative, and could be encouraged
by conveying the message that the stronger the adherence to complete confinement,
the shorter the period of that confinement and the sooner people can return to normal
life. Given the economic precarity of most households in Cameroon, including vulnerable
groups such as people with HIV infection, an allocation of special financial allowances
to households could encourage compliance with confinement measures.
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Similarly, financial support should be provided to the medical personnel at the forefront
of this fight and business owners for whom operations will be restricted throughout
a period of confinement. Contact tracing, wearing of masks in public places, and self-isolation
of individuals who have symptoms are crucial. Finally, the use of scientific developments
(including newly developed rapid diagnostic tests and treatment options) and allocation
of more resources to the fight against COVID-19 would lead to a greater capacity for
the diagnosis, rapid isolation, treatment, and care of infected individuals. These
actions will help save millions of lives and make it possible to restart the economy
as quickly as possible. This is the time to show solidarity, compassion, and leadership.